Ten years ago, at the launch of Vogue Runway, we revisited the 1990s with fresh eyes. At the time, the pre-internet era felt like a time capsule—minimalism, grunge, and raw creativity ruled, untouched by social media’s influence. The decade was ripe for rediscovery.
Contributors like Sarah Mower explored Helmut Lang’s enduring minimalism, Lynn Yaeger revisited the rebellious roots of grunge, and Luke Leitch reflected on the street-smart edge of ’90s menswear. In 2015, these looks felt nostalgic yet refreshing. But fast forward to today, and ’90s fashion still dominates—and not just on the runway. From TikTok style stars to Gen Z vintage lovers, the aesthetic is alive and thriving.
Why does the fashion world remain obsessed with the ’90s? The answer lies in its duality: a blend of structure and rebellion. Helmut Lang’s clean lines, Marc Jacobs’s iconic grunge collection, and the rise of supermodels in pared-down Calvin Klein—these moments were not just stylish, but symbolic. They marked a cultural shift, one that still resonates today.
But what should we do about fashion’s ’90s fixation?
The key is reinterpretation. Today’s revival isn’t about copying looks head-to-toe but adapting them. Pair your slip dress with sneakers instead of stilettos. Layer a baby tee under a blazer. Revisit cargo pants, but in a tailored silhouette. Designers are already doing it—taking ’90s DNA and giving it a 2025 upgrade.
The continued influence of the ’90s isn’t laziness—it’s legacy. As fashion cycles faster than ever, this era provides a blueprint that feels both grounded and cool. Whether you lived through it or are experiencing it anew, the ’90s offer endless inspiration.
So yes, fashion still loves the ’90s—but now, it’s up to us to make it feel like the future.
